If you’re experiencing heel pain, especially after long periods of rest, don’t wait to get help. Visit Dr. Finkelstein at NYNJ Foot and Ankle Associates in Bronx, NY.
Why Does My Heel Hurt?
Most of the time, heel pain comes from an inflamed band across the sole of the foot called the fascia. This band of tissue runs from the heel to your toes, resulting in pain in your heel that is usually worse within the first few steps after rest or after a long period of activity. This inflammation is called Plantar Fasciitis and can result in the development of heel spurs.
Plantar fasciitis can develop for a few different reasons, including:
- Middle age
- Obesity
- Inadequate arch support
- Tight Achilles tendons
- Unusual gait
- Frequent high-heel use
- Long periods of being on your feet
- Wearing thin-soled or worn-out shoes
Women are also at higher risk of developing plantar fasciitis. If you’ve noticed pain in your heel that gets better with short periods of activity, call Dr. Finkelstein at your Bronx, NY NYNJ Foot and Ankle Associates.
What Can Be Done About Heel Pain?
Usually, your podiatrist can diagnose your heel pain with a questionnaire about your symptoms. They may also ask about your exercise habits and do a physical exam of your foot to determine the cause of the inflammation.
To treat Plantar Fasciitis, there are several options.
- Splints - A splint is a supportive device that forces your calf and the arch of your foot to stretch while you’re sleeping.
- Physical therapy - A series of stretches or light exercises to promote leg muscle strength and to loosen the Achilles and plantar fascia.
- Orthotics - If your inflammation is due to improper arch support, your podiatrist may recommend custom-made or store-bought orthotics to give your arch the proper support.
- Steroid Injections - Injections into the heel are only recommended to provide pain relief in extreme cases.
- Shock wave therapy - Sound waves are directed at the heel to stimulate healing and reduce inflammation.
In some cases, more extreme treatment such as ultrasonic tissue repair or surgery may be suggested, only if there is significant damage or lasting pain that cannot be repaired by other methods.
To learn more about the cause of your heel pain and what kind of treatment would be best for you, call (718) 881-7990 to make an appointment with Dr. Finkelstein at NYNJ Foot and Ankle Associates in Bronx, NY.